SCENE FROM MR. BOUCICAULT'S NEW DRAMA.

THE SLAVE MARKET--SALE OF THE OCTOROON.

We have selected the "sensation scene" from Mr. Boucicault's new drama of
"The Octoroon" for an illustration this week. This particular scene
recommends itself from its truthfulness. In delineating the dreadful business
which it represents, the dramatist has attempted no exaggeration. He has treated
it as a familiar horror, one which society has accepted as portion of the regular
business of the market and legalised as an institution. However abominable it may be, it
is authorised. Those who observe, and those who are actively engaged in the
transaction, alike acquiesce in the fact and the principle, as if there were no
outrage being done to nature, no sin against humanity committed. Any external
demonstration of excitement would be improper. What conflict there is goes on
within. That beautiful Octoroon--what feels she? They who would save her
from the threatened degradation--what feel they? And in that determined wretch, who exceeds his
means in her purchase--O! What a
hell there is in his bosom, of premeditated guilt, and even already of an anticipated
remorse! The picture is presented on the stage in fine taste.

There can be no doubt that if it had been morally possible for the author to have
given a happier ending to his drama it would have been more immediately popular.
But we do not think that this circumstance will at all interfere with its run.
The audience take all through a strong interest in the fate of the heroine, and this
is manifested by the reluctance they feel at the end when the victim finds no refuge but in death.

Originally published by Greenwood Press as The Sans Pareil Theatre 1806-1819,
Adelphi Theatre 1819-1850: An Index to Authors, Titles, Performers, 1988, and The
Adelphi Theatre 1850-1900: An Index to Authors, Titles, Performers and Management, 1992.